Professor Tom Wheeler, who chaired the search committee, said DeVigal's appointment will benefit the school, students, the community and public interest journalism.

“Described in numerous profiles as a renegade, multimedia guru and genius, Andrew DeVigal is one of the world’s best known groundbreakers in interactive/digital storytelling, as well as a leader in using mobile web apps and a variety of other interactive media in service to civic engagement,” Wheeler said in a press release.

DeVigal helped the New York Times integrate new technologies into its storytelling. His “One in 8 Million” multimedia series won The New York Times its first Emmy Award in 2010.

“I was drawn to this position for the opportunity to collaborate with the world-class faculty at the University of Oregon and help forge the future of journalism in the service of civic engagement,” DeVigal said in a statement.

His previous job was as creative director of content strategy at Second Story, a media company that is focused on innovative storytelling and interactive experiences.

Based at the George S. Turnbull center in downtown Portland, the Center for Journalism Innovation and Civic Engagement will focus on interactive projects that serve the public interest, and teach students a wide range of communication skills.

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Andrew DeVigal to our distinguished faculty,” said Julianne Newton, the school's dean in the statement. “This groundbreaking journalist brings extraordinary talent and expertise to his new role as the chair of journalism innovation and civic engagement.”